ESPN College Football

2012 record: 7-6
2012 conference record: 4-4 ACC (third in Atlantic Division)
Returning starters: offense: 5; defense: 5; kicker/punter: 2

Top returners:

WR Quintin Payton, OT Rob Crisp, OT Tyson Chandler, DE Darryl Cato-Bishop, CB Dontae Johnson PK Niklas Sade, P Wil Baumann

Key losses:

QB Mike Glennon, WR Tobais Palmer, OG R.J. Mattes, C Camden Wentz, CB David Amerson, S Earl Wolff, S Brandan Bishop

2012 statistical leaders (*returners)

Rushing: Shadrach Thornton* (694 yards)
Passing: Glennon (4,031 yards)
Receiving: Palmer (781 yards)
Tackles: Wolff (119)
Sacks: Cato-Bishop* (6.5)
Interceptions: Amerson (5)

Spring answers

1. QB Pete Thomas is next in line. Thomas edged out Manny Stocker for the majority of first-team reps this spring, and while the staff isn’t ready to name Thomas the starter, it became clear he is the front-runner to take over for Mike Glennon.

2. Picking up the pace: First-year coach Dave Doeren and his staff didn’t install the entire offense, but the Wolfpack did begin to make the switch to an up-tempo, no-huddle offense this spring. Doeren wants to snap it every 15 seconds, and the players began to adjust to a different pace of play.

3. Solid specialists: If there is one area the Pack shouldn’t be concerned about this fall, it’s the kicking game. The holder, punter and place-kicker are all true juniors who have been playing since they were true freshmen. Doeren said all of them had a great spring.

Fall questions

1. Unproven quarterbacks: While Thomas took the majority of reps, Doeren has stressed this remains an open competition into summer, and none of them have yet to compose a résumé comparable to Glennon’s.

2. Shuffling on the offensive line: NC State has to replace three starters up front, and the new staff spent this spring experimenting with different combinations to try and find the best fits. The linemen have also had to adjust to different blocking schemes in the faster-paced offense.

3. New faces at safety. It’s been almost three and a half years since anyone besides Wolff and Bishop had to play safety at NC State. Replacing that experience will be difficult. Hakim Jones was a backup last year who has been penciled in as a starter, and Jarvis Byrd, a fifth-year redshirt senior who has been injured for most of the past two seasons and was a former cornerback, is another top option. Finding a rotation at safety will be a priority this summer.

Florida State followed up its big first round with a huge NFL draft weekend, as the Seminoles led every program in the nation with 11 total picks, setting a new school record.

That's right. The Noles had more picks than national champion Alabama (nine) and SEC power LSU (nine), two schools that played for the national championship following the 2011 season. More than in-state rival Florida (eight), too.

Those numbers are clear validation the Seminoles have restocked their cupboards with an inordinate amount of talent as they re-emerge in the national conversation.

"It’s a great indication of how the program is truly developing," coach Jimbo Fisher said in a statement. “I think it shows we’re getting back to national prominence. Our players are doing a great job of representing themselves on and off the field leading to chances at the next level. I’m happy for all of these guys and want to thank them for helping return this program back to the national spotlight."

Overall, the ACC had 31 players taken for the ninth straight season, finishing second behind the SEC.

Here is a quick look back at all the selections:

First round

• No. 7 Jonathan Cooper, OG, Arizona
• No. 16 EJ Manuel, QB, Buffalo
• No. 24 Bjoern Werner, DE, Indianapolis
• No. 25 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Minnesota
• No. 27 DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Houston
• No. 28 Sylvester Williams, DT, Denver

Second round

• No. 37 Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina
• No. 40 Cornellius "Tank" Carradine, DE, San Francisco
• No. 42 Menelik Watson, OT, Oakland
• No. 51 David Amerson, CB, NC State

Third round

• No. 73 Mike Glennon, QB, Tampa Bay
• No. 89 Brennan Williams, OT, North Carolina

Fourth round

• No. 127 Malliciah Goodman, DE, Atlanta

Fifth round

• No. 136 Earl Wolff, S, Philadelphia
• No. 141 Oday Aboushi, OG, New York Jets
• No. 143 Jonathan Meeks, S, Buffalo
• No. 149 Brandon McGee, CB, St. Louis
• No. 154 Chris Thompson, RB, Washington
• No. 162 Brandon Jenkins, LB, Washington

Sixth round

• No. 171 Corey Fuller, WR, Detroit
• No. 173 Vinston Painter, OT, Denver
• No. 177 Dustin Hopkins, PK, Buffalo
• No. 180 Nick Moody, LB, San Francisco
• No. 187 Andre Ellington, RB, Arizona
• No. 189 Mike James, RB, Tampa Bay
• No. 206 Vince Williams, LB, Pittsburgh

Seventh round

• No. 214 Travis Bond, OG, Minnesota
• No. 215 Tommy Bohanon, FB, New York Jets
• No. 224 Kevin Dorsey, WR, Green Bay
• No. 229 Everett Dawkins, DT, Minnesota
• No. 249 Sean Renfree, QB, Atlanta

Incoming member Syracuse had three players drafted as well: tackle Justin Pugh in the first round to the New York Giants; quarterback Ryan Nassib in the fourth round to the Giants; and safety Shamarko Thomas in the fourth round to Pittsburgh.

And now a few notes:

• North Carolina had the second-most picks from the ACC with five -- its highest total since five were picked in 2011. The Tar Heels had three offensive linemen selected, the most from UNC in the draft since 1967.
• Miami had its NFL draft streak extended to 39 consecutive seasons with Brandon McGee and Mike James both getting selected.
• Virginia also had its draft streak extended to 30 straight seasons with Aboushi's selection.
• Tommy Bohanon Bohanon became just the third Wake Forest fullback to have his name called in the draft, joining Ovie Mughelli (Ravens, 2003) and Neil MacLean (Eagles, 1958).
• With four selections in this year's draft, Clemson has now had 23 players chosen over the last five years, and at least four every year Dabo Swinney has been head coach. It is the first time in history Clemson has had at least four players drafted each of the last five years.
• Georgia Tech did not have a player selected for the first time since 2005. Three players with draft hopes ended up with free agent deals: T.J. Barnes (Jacksonville), Izaan Cross (Buffalo) and Rod Sweeting (New Orleans).
• Pitt did not have a player drafted for the second consecutive season. Running back Ray Graham, who was the Panthers' best hope for selection, signed as an undrafted free agent with the Texans.
• Here are a few other notable free-agent signings: Conner Vernon (Oakland), Chibuikem “Kenny” Okoro (San Diego), Marcus Davis (New York Giants), Lonnie Pryor (Jacksonville).

Most draft analysts expected a big first round for the ACC, so watching six picks come off the board Thursday night was no big surprise.

Watching EJ Manuel go before his more highly-rated Seminoles teammates, as the only quarterback taken among the first 32 selections? Well, that was the big draft day shocker.

The Buffalo Bills selected Manuel with the No. 16 overall pick, as new coach Doug Marrone passed over his former Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib in favor of the dual-threat Florida State product. Manuel was invited to New York for the draft, so certainly expectations were there for him to be a high pick.

But West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith was expected to come off the board first. Speculation had linked Nassib to Buffalo for months, thanks to his connections with Marrone and his former offensive coordinator, Nathaniel Hackett. But in the end, Bills general manager Buddy Nix said of Manuel, "This guy to us has got the upside to be whatever you want him to be."

For those scoring at home, the Seminoles have had quarterbacks drafted in the first round twice in the past three drafts. Christian Ponder went to the Minnesota Vikings in 2011. You have to believe coach Jimbo Fisher will be dropping that little nugget every time he sets foot on the recruiting trail.

Manuel was the first of three Seminoles drafted in the first round. Defensive end Bjoern Werner went No. 24 to Indianapolis and cornerback Xavier Rhodes went next, at No. 25 to Minnesota. Both Werner and Rhodes were projected to go higher than Manuel in just about every mock draft. Florida State had three first-round picks for the first time since 2006.

As for the league as a whole, six players who spent their careers in the ACC went in the first round -- the highest total since seven were drafted in 2008. If you count Syracuse offensive tackle Justin Pugh, then seven players at current/future ACC schools went on Day 1. Pugh became the highest drafted Orange player since Dwight Freeney was the 11th pick by the Colts in 2002.

Only the SEC had more picks on Day 1, with 12.

As expected, North Carolina guard Jonathan Cooper was the first ACC player taken, at No. 7 overall to Arizona. Teammate Sylvester Williams went No. 28 overall to Denver, giving the Tar Heels two first-round picks for the first time since 2002. Cooper became the first offensive guard taken in the top 10 since 1997.

Clemson receiver DeAndre Hopkins went No. 27 overall to the Houston Texans, making his decision to leave school early pay off. That seems to be the perfect fit for Hopkins, who gets to play with Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson. Hopkins became the first Clemson wide receiver to be selected in the first round since Rod Gardner went No. 15 to the Washington Redskins in 2001.

So to review:

• No. 7 Jonathan Cooper, OG, Arizona
• No. 16 EJ Manuel, QB, Buffalo
• No. 19 Justin Pugh, OT, NY Giants
• No. 24 Bjoern Werner, DE, Indianapolis
• No. 25 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Minnesota
• No. 27 DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Houston
• No. 28 Sylvester Williams, DT, Denver

The second and third rounds resume Friday night in New York. Among the ACC players who stand a chance to get selected later today:

• Clemson RB Andre Ellington
• Florida State OT Menelik Watson
• Florida State DE Tank Carradine
• North Carolina RB Giovani Bernard
• North Carolina LB Kevin Reddick
• NC State QB Mike Glennon
• NC State CB David Amerson
• Syracuse S Shamarko Thomas
• Syracuse QB Ryan Nassib

The rest of the ACC wraps up practice this weekend. Here is a look at what to watch at each spring game.

BOSTON COLLEGE

When: Cancelled.

UPDATE: Boston College decided to cancel its spring game, set for Saturday, because of the tragic events that unfolded in the area this week. Though there is no game, these are still three keys for the Eagles as they move into the offseason.

• Chase Rettig. Rettig has been through one coordinator too many during his career with the Eagles, and now he has to learn a new system that is not exactly the pro-style brand more suited to him. Coach Steve Addazio has said he will not force Rettig out of his comfort zone this year, but how Rettig handles yet another change is definitely something to watch.
• The run game. Addazio has placed a heavy emphasis on the run game this spring. Does he have the talent and depth to improve the dreadful numbers from a year ago? With Rolandan Finch gone, senior Andre Williams has been the guy left to shoulder the load this spring. He says, "Bring it on."
• More aggressive D? This will be a good chance to see how Don Brown has gone about revamping the defense. We have all heard how he wants to be more aggressive this year. Let's see it.

GEORGIA TECH

When: Friday, 7:30 p.m. (Note: There is a threat of rain so a decision on whether the game will be played as scheduled will be made later today. As of this morning, the game is still on.)

• How does the defense look? The switch to the 4-3 has changed a few things on defense, namely Jeremiah Attaochu moving down to defensive end. The front could be very good this year given the talent that is in that group.
• Vad Lee and Justin Thomas. Coach Paul Johnson has left the quarterback competition open this spring between Lee and Thomas and has said both could play this season.
• The backs. It appears the Jackets have some great depth at both A-back and B-back, but who is going to emerge as a potential star in that group? David Sims, Zach Laskey and Matt Connors have seen the most snaps at B-back, though Charles Perkins and Broderick Snoddy recently returned to practice. With A-back Orwin Smith gone, the competition has centered on B.J. Bostic, Synjyn Days, Robert Godhigh, Deon Hill and Tony Zenon.

NC STATE

When: Saturday, 1:30 p.m., ESPN3

• The quarterbacks. Starting to sound like a theme, right? Coach Dave Doeren has said he will not name a starter after spring practice. Pete Thomas and Manny Stocker are still learning the new system, and Doeren says, "They're getting better. I told somebody the other day: I just don't think it's fair to make a decision on a guy that doesn't know your offense yet. I think we've got to give those kids a chance to play football without thinking. We're not there yet."
• The secondary. This group will have three new starters when fall rolls around, and much less game experience. Juston Burris is listed as the starter at the cornerback spot David Amerson leaves behind, while Hakim Jones and Jarvis Byrd are set to take the open safety spots.
• The defensive ends. There is still open competition at both defensive end spots, according to the depth chart the team released ahead of the spring game. Art Norman and Forrest West are battling for one spot, while Mike Rose and Darryl Cato-Bishop are competing for the other.

SYRACUSE

When: Saturday, noon.

• Terrel Hunt vs. Charley Loeb. Hunt has reportedly gotten more of the first-team reps as the spring has gone on, but this is a good chance for both quarterbacks to make an impression on their coaches -- especially with Oklahoma transfer Drew Allen headed to Syracuse in the summer.
• Defensive line. There is no question Syracuse has to work on building depth here because of several losses the group has taken. One player to watch is Iowa transfer John Raymon, who has worked at both tackle and end this spring.
• Quinta Funderburk. Funderburk sat out last season after transferring in from Arkansas. He has made a few highlight catches during the spring scrimmages to catch some attention, and with Alec Lemon and Marcus Sales gone, Funderburk has an opportunity to become a go-to receiver on this team.

VIRGINIA TECH

When: Saturday, 3 p.m., ESPN3

• Logan Thomas and the offense. So, how does Thomas look under new offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler? His rebound from a mediocre 2013 is going to be huge for the Hokies this season.
• The running backs. Nobody has really stepped up to take the starting job, although Trey Edmunds has had a good spring, including 86 yards and two touchdowns in the last scrimmage. JC Coleman, also vying for the job, is not expected to play because of a leg injury.
• Brandon Facyson. It's no secret the Hokies need some help in the secondary, and every single report out of Blacksburg points to the freshman cornerback as being the next star on defense.

WAKE FOREST

When: Saturday, 1 p.m., ACC Digital Network

• The receivers. One of the big goals this spring has been to find another receiver to complement Michael Campanaro. Orville Reynolds, who moved from running back, has so far turned some heads with his performance, so keep an eye on him.
• New faces. Two players who have drawn raves on defense this spring are defensive linemen Desmond Floyd and Johnny Garcia. In fact, coach Jim Grobe believes his defensive line has been a bright spot this spring because the group has been able to develop some depth.
• Competition. This will actually be a scrimmage, not a game, because the Deacs simply do not have enough offensive linemen to split the team in two. At last check, Wake had seven healthy offensive linemen after Cody Preble injured his ankle in the last scrimmage.

The first round of the NFL draft is just a week away, so it is time to provide you an update with the latest predictions, mock drafts and rankings from ESPN experts.

First, let us start with Mel Kiper Jr., who plays general manager for every single team and predicts the first three rounds of the draft . It is Insider content, but here is a look at where he has placed players from ACC schools. Oh, and be sure to read his ground rules to have a better understanding of his thought process.

First round

• North Carolina offensive guard Jonathan Cooper (10), Tennessee
• North Carolina defensive tackle Sylvester Williams (18), Dallas
• Offensive tackle Menelik Watson (27), Houston
• Florida State cornerback Xavier Rhodes (28), Denver

Second round

• Florida State defensive end Bjoern Werner (36), Detroit
• Syracuse offensive tackle Justin Pugh (39), New York Jets
• Florida State Defensive end Cornellius Carradine (42), Miami
• Syracuse safety Shamarko Thomas (46), St. Louis
• Clemson receiver DeAndre Hopkins (55), Green Bay

Third round

• Florida State quarterback EJ Manuel (68), Cleveland
• Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib (71), Buffalo
• NC State cornerback David Amerson (77), Miami
• Florida State fullback Lonnie Pryor (95), Houston
• NC State quarterback Mike Glennon (96), Kansas City

As Kiper Jr. states, that piece is not a mock draft. It's his preference for each team at that spot. His mock draft features Cooper, Williams and Rhodes. Disagree with his first-round picks? Well you can make your own mock draft . Two thumbs up on that tool.

Kiper also has updated his Big Board , ranking the Top 25 prospects. Only Cooper and Williams make that list.

Meanwhile, ESPN draft expert Todd McShay has revealed the Scouts Inc. tier rankings , which list prospects by their ratings. There are seven tiers and 109 players rated, with 17 from ACC schools (counting incoming members Pittsburgh and Syracuse).

McShay also has named his All-Satellite team , comprised of the best prospects when playing in space. North Carolina running back Giovani Bernard checks in at No. 5. McShay writes, "He has super-quick feet, good initial burst and outstanding lateral agility. Bernard can stop and start on a dime, strings together multiple moves and is a slippery runner between the tackles."

Want more? Kiper also has updated his top 5 prospects by position .

Eight more ACC schools have completed their pro days. Here is a look at some of the highlights:

BOSTON COLLEGE

• Twelve former Eagles participated during the Eagles' pro day.
• Representatives from 12 different teams were there, including the Patriots and Saints.
• Linebacker Nick Clancy, who was unable to attend the NFL scouting combine because of a broken arm, was satisfied with his performance, telling the MetroWest Daily News, "It’s something you train for three months for. I’ve been doing nothing but working out and eating right, and getting my body right for this day, so I think I did well and hopefully the scouts thought I did well, too."

FLORIDA STATE

• David Hale of NoleNation has a complete report, spotlighting quarterback EJ Manuel.
• Some interesting news here as well: Manuel, Bjoern Werner, Xavier Rhodes and Menelik Watson were invited to the draft in New York.

GEORGIA TECH

• Eight Jackets participated. The top two draft prospects -- TJ Barnes and Rod Sweeting -- did not run the 40 again, choosing to stand on their numbers from the combine. There are still some concerns about Barnes' weight.
• Quarterback Tevin Washington says he will play any position in the NFL. He ran a 4.63 in the 40-yard dash.
• Offensive linemen Omoregie Uzzi did only the bench press as he recovers from an injury. He was able to lift 225 pounds 22 times.

MARYLAND

• Fourteen former Terps participated in pro day.
• Tight end Matt Furstenburg, who has seen his draft stock rise over the past month, did not participate in the testing portion because of solid numbers from the combine. He ran the 40 in 4.62 seconds, third among tight ends. Furstenburg also placed third in the vertical jump (35.5 inches), fifth in the 20-yard shuttle (4.35) and fourth in the 60-yard shuttle (11.76) at his position. He did do some field drills.

VIRGINIA

• Tackle Oday Aboushi, expected to be the top Cav taken in the draft, improved on the numbers he posted at the combine in the bench press and 40. He had 21 reps at 225 and ran the 40 in about 5.3. Aboushi told The Daily Progress, "I didn’t put up the numbers I wanted to (at the combine). The schedule was a little rough on me. I didn’t bench as well as I thought I was going to do. ... I could kind of redeem myself at pro day. I definitely had something to prove at pro day."

WAKE FOREST

• Eight former Deacs participated.
• Fullback Tommy Bohanon has the best shot at getting drafted. He chose to stand on the numbers he posted at the combine in the bench press (36 reps at 225), vertical and broad jumps. According to NFL.com, Bohanon ran the 40 in 4.76 and 4.79 to improve on his combine time of 4.88. Bohanon told The Winston-Salem Journal, "I didn’t do anything on the inside with the bench press, but I did all the drills out here, and I improved a little, so that was good."

For a look back at the headlines from Clemson, Miami, Pitt and Syracuse, click here.

Home from Miami. Here's what's going on in the rest of the league today ...

• FSU quarterbacks coach Randy Sanders will provide input, but he won't get his feelings hurt if Jimbo Fisher doesn't use it.
• FSU linebacker Telvin Smith is ready to invade opponents' backfields.
• Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris is always looking for the next wrinkle in his offense.
• Here are five good questions facing Georgia Tech this spring.
• Former NC State cornerback David Amerson talks about his struggles last fall.
• Pitt coach Paul Chryst hasn't been thrilled with his team's effort.
• Here's an in-depth breakdown of the Hokies' linebackers heading into spring ball.
• There has been some movement in Miami's backup quarterback battle.
• The teammates of UVa offensive lineman Morgan Moses pleaded with him to stay another year.

 

With the NFL combine done and gone, it is time to check in on the latest Big Board from ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. to see how the top ACC prospects rank.

Kiper has a new top-rated ACC player.

North Carolina offensive guard Jonathan Cooper is now ranked ahead of Florida State defensive end Bjoern Werner. Cooper ranks No. 10, holding steady after a good performance at the combine last week. Werner, previously rated No. 5, dropped to No. 11 after a performance Kiper described as "a little stiff." But Kiper also added, "That said, Werner still has tremendous upside to go along with a season of consistent production."

Another ACC player made a big jump in the big board -- North Carolina defensive tackle Sylvester Williams, up seven spots to No. 13. Kiper says, "He looks squat, but he's really quick off the ball. Williams has a knack for jumping the snap; his burst can be disruptive."

Fellow ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay also redid his Top 32 . Cooper also is rated his top prospect from the ACC, moving up five spots to No. 11. Of Cooper, McShay says, "Cooper is the best blocker in space in this class and would be a perfect fit in a zone-blocking scheme."

Werner checks in at No. 14, moving down five spots. Williams also moved down three spots to No. 18.

No matter who ranks where, Cooper, Werner and Williams are clearly the consensus Top 3 ACC players and should be shoo-ins to go in the first round. The ACC also had three first-round picks last year.

Now here is some NFL draft trivia for you: the last time North Carolina had two-first round draft picks was 2002, when Julius Peppers went No. 2 overall and Ryan Sims went No. 6 overall. The last time the Noles had a Top 10 pick was in 2006, when Ernie Sims went No. 9 overall to the Lions.

For more draft ratings, check out Kiper's Top 5 players by position . NC State quarterback Mike Glennon, once Kiper's top-rated quarterback, is now No. 3 after uneven showings during the combine and Senior Bowl. Also of note: Wolfpack teammates David Amerson and Earl Wolff appear to be on the rise.

Hope you're having a great day.

• Clemson coach Dabo Swinney wants safety Garry Peters to fully commit himself to the program.
• Former Duke receiver Conner Vernon talks about his combine performance.
• Florida State is set to hire Mississippi State assistant Tim Brewster.
• Here is a quick Georgia Tech spring preview.
• With familiarity on his side, Ricardo Young enters spring practice as the first-team quarterback.
• The Miami Herald previews spring practice for the Hurricanes.
• David Amerson and Jonathan Cooper were big winners at the NFL combine.
• North Carolina coach Larry Fedora says his players can't hide from expectations.
• Syracuse's new $17 million training facility may amount to a Hallelujah moment.
• Credit Mike London with another 757 prize: five-star safety Quin Blanding.
• Virginia Tech fans are unhappy there are no Thursday home games this year.
• Wake Forest punter Alex Wulfeck will transfer to Notre Dame.

The poking, prodding, interviews and drills have wrapped up at the NFL combine in Indianapolis. Now let's take a quick look at who stood out from the ACC during the all-important event.

• The defensive backs were the last group to go, wrapping up Tuesday. And there were some pretty good performances. Miami cornerback Brandon McGee posted one of the fastest 40 times at the combine, running a 4.40 to rank him No. 13 among all participants. He also was a top performer in the bench press and 20-yard shuttle run. Those numbers will not do anything but help his draft stock.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Dave MartinNC State cornerback David Amerson showed off his speed at the NFL combine, clocking a 4.44 in the 40-yard dash.
• NC State cornerback David Amerson was out to prove himself at the combine after an up-and-down 2012 season. He definitely opened eyes with his performance, which NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock described as "excellent." Amerson ran a 4.44 in the 40 and was also a top performer in the vertical jump.
• Those two guys were not the only fast defensive backs at the combine. Of the players with the top 15 times at the position, six have ACC ties. Rod Sweeting of Georgia Tech (4.42), Shamarko Thomas of Syracuse (4.42), Xavier Rhodes of Florida State (4.43) and Earl Wolff of NC State (4.44) were among the fastest.
• Speaking of Rhodes, his vertical leap was incredibly impressive, at 40.5 inches to tie for first among all defensive backs and rank No. 3 overall. He also was a top performer in the broad jump, and certainly helped himself with his day. So did Thomas, one of the most underrated players in college football last year. Though Thomas made some headlines after he fell at the end of his 40, he had a huge day. He also leaped 40.5 inches and was a top performer in the 20-yard shuttle and broad jump.
• The ACC had several top performers in the bench press as well. Wake Forest fullback Tommy Bohanon tied for No. 4 overall with 36 reps and was also a top performer in the vertical jump and 60-yard shuttle. Also in the top 15 overall for bench: North Carolina guard Jonathan Cooper (35), NC State guard Zach Allen (32) and Virginia Tech offensive tackle Vinston Painter (32). Speaking of Cooper, ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay said the lineman "had one of the more impressive workouts."
• Florida State quarterback EJ Manuel had a nice combine himself, though he was inconsistent with his throws. Manuel was a top performer in the broad jump, ranking No. 3 among all quarterbacks after jumping 9 feet, 10 inches. He also was a top performer in the 40 (4.65), vertical jump (34), 3-cone drill (7.08) and 20-yard shuttle (4.21) to rank among the top 5 in each category.
• The folks at Scouts Inc. had this to say about Clemson receiver DeAndre Hopkins, a top performer at his position in the bench press and vertical jump (36): "His 4.57 in the 40 is about what we expected. His game is more about being physical, though, and Hopkins showed good ball skills. He is was one of the most natural pass-catchers on the field, with good focus in the gauntlet drill and the ability to extend fully for balls." He's got a second-round grade.
• Virginia Tech receiver Marcus Davis put up some good numbers as well, topping his position with a vertical jump of 39.5 inches, while also posting good numbers in the 40 (4.56) and bench press (19 reps). It's never been about physical talent for Davis, so the numbers aren't much of a surprise. He has to put it all together on the field.
• Now for running back: North Carolina's Giovani Bernard was a top performer in various categories. He ran a 4.53 in the 40; and was a top performer in the 20-yard shuttle and 60-yard shuttle. Miami running back Mike James also put up some good numbers.

There's a very good chance we could see the ACC schedule this afternoon ...

• Don't be surprised to see a Thursday night home game for Clemson.
• UVa is going to announce a home-and-home series with Boise State, according to Jerry Ratcliffe.
• Florida State will open spring practices with six new coaches. Get caught up on the Noles' revolving door.
• FSU's Marvin Bracy and Georgia Tech's Broderick Snoddy are showcasing their track speed.
• Former FSU quarterback EJ Manuel has had an impressive combine so far .
• Former Maryland tight end Matt Furstenburg clocked the second-fastest time by a tight end at the NFL combine.
• Former NC State cornerback David Amerson is trying to prove that getting burned by receivers last year was just a fluke.
• Former USF assistant Larry Scott has been hired as Miami's tight ends coach.
• Andy Bitter has been giving updates on how some former Hokies are doing at the NFL combine.
• Here's a look at how some former Syracuse players fared in Indy.
• Winning a Super Bowl is nice and everything, but Ray Lewis is more excited to follow his son's career.

Have a great weekend!

• Has Florida State lost another assistant?
• Video: Former Florida State cornerback Xavier Rhodes talks about what he's working on leading up to the combine.
• Former Georgia Tech defensive tackle T.J. Barnes is hoping to be a combine surprise.
• Several former Miami assistants want the NCAA to throw out the cases against them, the AP reports.
• The Miami Board of Trustees Chairman writes an open letter to the NCAA in The Miami Herald, asking that no further sanctions be imposed.
• The Herald has a few more developments in the case.
• North Carolina guard Jonathan Cooper has gone from a fat little kid to a potential top 10 pick.
• One draft analyst gives his thoughts on Mike Glennon, Giovani Bernard, David Amerson and Sean Renfree.
• Hank Poteat is excited to start his coaching career at Pitt.
• Former Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib has prepared for the draft by staying local.
• How have former Virginia Tech players fared at the combine?
• Wake Forest will honor former tackle Tyson Clabo at halftime of Saturday's basketball game against Miami.

There are going to be position battles this spring at every school in the ACC, but some will be in the spotlight more than others. If you’re just tuning in to ACC football, here are some of the biggest competitions in the conference this spring:

OFFENSE

1. Florida State quarterback: This is arguably the most intriguing competition in the entire conference, as the Seminoles have to replace veteran EJ Manuel. Clint Trickett enters the spring at the top of the depth chart, but consider this job open. Sophomore Jacob Coker is the total package, but redshirt freshman Jameis Winston was the nation’s No. 1 quarterback and could be the answer, too.

2. North Carolina running back: The Tar Heels have to find a way to replace leading rusher Giovani Bernard, who left early for the NFL draft. Not only will his loss be felt in the running game, but probably even moreso in the return game, as Bernard was one of the nation’s top punt returners. UNC returns A.J. Blue and Romar Morris, who combined for 819 yards rushing and 11 touchdowns last season.

3. Syracuse quarterback: The Orange enter the ACC with a new coach and in need of a new quarterback. Record-setting quarterback Ryan Nassib is gone, leaving behind a wide-open competition. Backup Charley Loeb, junior John Kinder, and dual-threat Terrel Hunt are the top candidates. Ashton Broyld, who moved to running back in 2012, could be in the mix as well.

DEFENSE

1. Florida State defensive ends: The cream of the crop is gone, as Tank Carradine, Bjoern Werner and Brandon Jenkins all have to be replaced. Enter Mario Edwards Jr., who has a leg-up on the competition because he played in 11 games as a true freshman, and started the final two games of the year in place of the injured Carradine. Don’t forget about Giorgio Newberry, though, and Chris Casher, who is now healthy after a knee injury. Casher will start spring ball on the two-deep depth chart. Dan Hicks, who was Jenkins’ backup two years ago, had a knee injury and missed all of last season. He had moved to tight end, but was in the rotation at defensive end earlier in his career and could come back.

2. NC State secondary: This group will have an entirely new look this spring, as three starters have to be replaced, including Earl Wolff, Brandan Bishop and David Amerson, the school’s career interception leader. Cornerback Dontae Johnson returns, along with Juston Burris, who played in the nickel package. There are also several redshirts and younger players who will compete.

3. Virginia Tech cornerback: Virginia Tech’s defensive backfield lost its star last month when cornerback Antone Exum tore his ACL in a pickup basketball game. Several young players will compete for his reps this spring, including Donovan Riley, Donaldven Manning and Davion Tookes. Highly touted cornerback Kendall Fuller will join the team in the summer.

BOSTON COLLEGE

Spring start: Feb. 28

Spring game: April 13

What to watch:

1. The transition: Introductions will be necessary as first-year coach Steve Addazio takes over. The good news is that offensive coordinator Ryan Day is a familiar face as he was the receivers coach under Frank Spaziani. He should work well with quarterback Chase Rettig.
2. The front seven. There used to be a time when BC’s defense was one of the best in the country. It wasn’t last year. The Eagles were No. 111 in the country in rushing defense and No. 120 in sacks and tackles for loss. First-year coordinator Don Brown has some work to do.
3. The running backs. They were an inconsistent group last year as BC ranked No. 115 in the country in rushing offense at 90.92 yards per game. All of the key contributors return, including leading rusher Andre Williams, but the group has to do a better job of taking pressure off of Rettig.

CLEMSON

Spring start: March 6

Spring game: April 13

What to watch:

1. Defensive progress: This is the second spring under coordinator Brent Venables, and the defense is the missing piece to the program becoming a contender on the national level. The defensive backs will have the most to prove as three starters have to be replaced.
2. The new playmakers: Clemson lost two big names on offense in receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who left early for the NFL, and running back Andre Ellington. There is plenty of talent remaining in the wings, but it has to step out of the shadows this spring.
3. Front and center: The Tigers return four starters to the offensive line, but have to replace their anchor in veteran center Dalton Freeman. While quarterback Tajh Boyd returns, the communication with the new center will be critical for calls and snaps.

FLORIDA STATE

Spring start: Mar. 20

Spring game: April 13

What to watch:

1. The QB battle: It's a three-way race to replace EJ Manuel, and while Clint Trickett will enter spring practice as the nominal No. 1, there's no clear favorite to win the job. Sophomore Jacob Coker has perhaps the best mix of arm strength, athleticism and experience, but redshirt freshman Jameis Winston was the country's top QB recruit two years ago and could blossom into a superstar.
2. The new coaches. There will be a much different feel on the practice fields at FSU this spring with six new assistant coaches running the show. Four of the assistants have previous coordinator experience, making it a veteran group, and new defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt brings an Alabama pedigree to a unit that was already among the best in the nation.
3. The new faces. A year ago, there weren't a ton of jobs open in the spring thanks to a hefty dose of veterans. Things are different this time around, meaning youngsters like WR Kelvin Benjamin, DE Mario Edwards Jr. and CB Ronald Darby will get their opportunities to solidify key roles on this year's team.

MARYLAND

Spring start: March 2

Spring game: April 12

What to watch:

1. Quarterbacks. The Terps’ unprecedented run of injuries at the position was one of the ACC’s biggest storylines last year. C.J. Brown, the projected starter, will be limited and won’t play in the spring game, but he can throw and participate in some drills. Ricardo Young, who sat out all year after transferring, will be the top healthy quarterback on the roster this spring and take the majority of the snaps. He played for offensive coordinator Mike Locksley at New Mexico and is familiar with the system. Perry Hills and Caleb Rowe aren’t nearly as ready or healthy as Brown is. Dustin Dailey, who also sat out last year because of NCAA transfer rules, is healthy and available.
2. Early enrollees: Three recruits enrolled early, including two junior college transfers who can help immediately. Maryland fans should be eager to see how junior college transfer Deon Long, a receiver, adds to the offense. Silvano Altamirano, another junior college transfer, will compete immediately for playing time at offensive guard.
3. Defensive competition: Maryland has some big names to replace in defensive linemen Joe Vellano and A.J. Francis, and middle linebacker Demetrius Hartsfield, all of whom were mainstays on the defense. Cole Farrand will be the veteran linebacker now, and Darius Kilgo is the only returning starter on the defensive line.

NC STATE

Spring start: March 19

Spring game: April 20

What to watch:

1. The quarterback competition. The Mike Glennon era is over, and Manny Stocker and Pete Thomas are the top options to replace him. Thomas, a former transfer from Colorado State, was a two-year starter there and threw for 4,269 yards and 18 touchdowns. Stocker, a sophomore, has yet to take a collegiate snap.
2. The staff transition. First-year coach Dave Doeren is taking over and he has hired an almost entirely new staff. How the players adjust to the change in terminology, schemes and personalities will be critical to the transition.
3. A revamped secondary: NC State will have to replace three starters, including Earl Wolff, Brandan Bishop and David Amerson, the school’s career interception leader. Cornerback Dontae Johnson returns, along with Juston Burris, who played in the nickel package. There are also several redshirts and younger players who will compete.

SYRACUSE

Spring start: March 19

Spring game: April 20

What to watch:

1. Staff changes: First-year coach Scott Shafer, who replaced Doug Marrone, has been with the program for four years, so it’s not a drastic change for the players, but it is Shafer’s first as a head coach. He has a chance to put his stamp on the program as it enters the first season in the ACC.
2. Quarterback competition: The Orange have to replace record-setting quarterback Ryan Nassib, and it’s a wide-open competition. Backup Charley Loeb, junior John Kinder, and dual-threat Terrel Hunt are the top candidates, but Ashton Broyld, who moved to running back in 2012, could be in the mix as well.
3. Replacing SS Shamarko Thomas: The Orange have to replace their leading tackler and top defender, as Thomas had 84 tackles last year. He was a game-changer who also had two interceptions and three forced fumbles. He was a first-team All-Big East selection.

WAKE FOREST

Spring start: March 19

Spring game: April 20

What to watch:

1. The health of the O-line: Wake was hit hard by injuries last year, and keeping this group healthy this offseason will be critical. The Deacs only lost one senior -- center Garrick Williams, but last year injuries forced the staff to play a significant number of redshirt freshmen, which it doesn’t like to do. Whit Barnes, for example, started 11 games at left guard. He was supposed to be a backup center.
2. Camp’s complement: The Deacs have to find a complement to star receiver Michael Campanaro. He’s the go-to guy, but quarterback Tanner Price needs a few more reliable targets to emerge this spring. Sherman Ragland, Matt James, Brandon Terry and Airyn Willis are all options.
3. Improving inside: The Deacs’ inside linebackers need a boost after losing Riley Haynes and Scott Betros. Redshirt junior Mike Olson will be a starter, but Wake needs to find another starter there and develop some dependable backups.

The official list of players invited to the combine is out.

Out of the whopping 333 invited players, the ACC will have 42 representatives at the big event, scheduled for Feb. 23-26 in Indianapolis. Every ACC team is represented. Florida State has the most players invited with 12; Maryland, Virginia and Wake Forest have the fewest with one each.

Here is the complete list:

• Oday Aboushi, OL, Virginia
• Zach Allen, OL, NC State
• David Amerson, CB, NC State
• T.J. Barnes, DL, Georgia Tech
• Nick Beckton, OL, Virginia Tech
• Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina
• Tommy Bohanon, FB, Wake Forest
• Travis Bond, OL, North Carolina
• Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State
• Emmett Cleary, OL, Boston College
• Jonathan Cooper, OL, North Carolina
• Marcus Davis, WR, Virginia Tech
• Everett Dawkins, DT, Florida State
• Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
• Corey Fuller, WR, Virginia Tech
• Matt Furstenburg, TE, Maryland
• Mike Glennon, QB, NC State
• Malliciah Goodman, DE, Clemson
• DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson
• Dustin Hopkins, PK, Florida State
• Mike James, RB, Miami
• Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
• EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
• Brandon McGee, DB, Miami
• Nick Moody, LB, Florida State
• Vince Painter, OL, Virginia Tech
• Chris Pantale, TE, Boston College
• Lonnie Pryor, RB, Florida State
• Kevin Reddick, LB, North Carolina
• Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
• Xavier Rhodes, DB, Florida State
• Rodney Smith, WR, Florida State
• Rod Sweeting, DB, Georgia Tech
• Bruce Taylor, LB, Virginia Tech
• Chris Thompson, RB, Florida State
• Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
• Menelik Watson, OL, Florida State
• Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State
• John Wetzel, OL, Boston College
• Brennan Williams, OL, North Carolina
• Sylvester Williams, DL, North Carolina
• Earl Wolff, DB, NC State